Shillong, Dec 18: Meghalaya today remembered the contributions and life of Soso Tham on his 85th death anniversary.
The official programme was conducted by the Department of Arts and Culture at the eponymous U Soso Tham Auditorium here.
Meghalaya Governor CH Vijayashankar, along with government officials, laid a wreath at the bust of Soso Tham, accompanied by the Arts and Culture Minister Sanbor Shullai and other dignitaries.
Addressing the gathering, Vijayshankar recalled the immense contributions of the renowned Khasi litterateur to the community and society at large.
He urged the state government to consider commemorating Soso Tham’s birth anniversary instead of his death anniversary, stating that celebrating a birth anniversary carries greater significance in honouring the legacy of eminent personalities. He added that the matter would be discussed with the Arts and Culture Department and placed before the cabinet.
Shullai announced that a bronze statue of Soso Tham would be installed at the State Central Library. He highlighted Soso Tham’s invaluable literary contributions, including his celebrated work, Ka Duitara Ksiar, and remarked that few had shown such profound love and dedication towards the community as the pioneer of Khasi literature.
During the programme, the Governor also felicitated members of Soso Tham’s family, along with participants of various competitions. The event was attended by the Principal Secretary of the Arts and Culture Department, Fredrick R Kharkongor, as well as other officials and dignitaries.
Meanwhile, the Khasi Students Union (KSU) unveiled a full-size statue of Soso Tham at the North-Eastern Hill University (NEHU) Library premises here.
An elder from the Tham clan expressed concern over what he said is some Khasis’ lack of interest in their native language. He urged Khasis to own and work towards preserving their community.
